“I want to thank Ben for all that he has done for UCLA in his ten seasons in Westwood. He embraced our tradition and culture and produced some terrific teams and coached a number of wonderful young men.

“We wish Ben and his family all the best as they move into a new chapter in their lives.”

Howland led the Bruins to a PAC 12 regular season title but lost in the conference tournament final to Arizona before bowing out in the NCAA round of 64 to Minnesota.

The 55 year old guided UCLA to three consecutive Final Four appearances from 2006 to 2008 but has only won one tournament game since their last trip to the national semi-finals.

“The UCLA community and fans have been unbelievable to my family and I and it’s been a great honor and privilege to represent this great institution,” he said. ” I look forward to what come next.”

UCLA will fork out $3.5 million to buy out the remaining five years on Howland’s contract. VCU head coach Shaka Smart, Florida’s Billy Donovan and Butler’s Brad Stevens are reportedly on the university’s wish list to replace Howland.